I decided that October would be a good month to start a fundraising project for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. I am calling the project ‘Let’s Talk Cancer.’

From the project title, you can tell that I do not want to do this project alone. I need your help. I need you to share your experiences about how cancer may have affected your life.

You may be a cancer survivor, a patient, a caregiver, a friend, or a family member. Sharing your story can help others.

I have been a cancer patient for several years. I would be willing, as I hope others would as well, to answer questions about my/their experience. This would be your chance to ask questions and for us to talk.

I recently spoke with friends about death. One question asked was if I could know the day that I was going to die, would I want that information? I have an answer. I was asked if I had ever thought about ending my life. I have an answer. The answers are my thoughts and feelings.

Throughout the month, you can share your experiences, thoughts, and feelings in the comments, or you can contact me via Messenger, text, email, or call. I’m looking forward to the conversation.

As many days as possible during October, I would like to profile someone who has shared their experience with me. A picture of the person will be included.

You can send a photo to me, or I can take one of you. If you do not wish for your photo or name to be used, I will respect your request. I have plenty of pictures of me that I could use.

I have been out and about with my memory maker, approaching people I don’t know, and asking if I could take their picture. Of course most ask why, and I will explain the project. I then take their photo, and we talk about cancer.

You will meet them over the next month.

Ice cream may not cure cancer, but it sure helps.

Picture taken in August 2025 in San Diego while at a Cards vs. Padres game. Rally ice cream! We lost, so next game I will have two.